If you’re looking for activities to do with your dog in DC, you’ve come to the right place. Events for dogs are all the rage around the nation’s capitol, and we’ve rounded up some of our faves, from baseball games to beer fests. Here are the top dog-friendly events in Washington D.C.—and they’re happening throughout the year.
1. Pups in the Park
Annually, late summer, National Park
Capitol Hill
- Annual dog-friendly day at baseball stadium National Park
- Dog tickets cost $10
- Dogs must be up-to-date on vaccinations
- Proceeds benefit the Washington Humane Society
2. Strut Your Mutt
Every spring in downtown Bethesda, MD.
- Annual celebration of dogs sponsored by the Bethesda Chevy Chase Rotary Club
- Activities for dogs, kids, and adults
- Parade awards given in categories like Best Kisser, Best Trick, and Owner/Dog Lookalike
3. Washington Humane Society Dog Wash at Fur-Get-Me-Not
1722 Flordia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
- Fundraiser for the Washington Humane Society/Washington Animal Rescue League
- Self-serve dog wash hosts events for area dog rescues throughout the year
- Dogs must be social around people and dogs
4. D.C. Walk for the Animals and Pet-a-Palooza featuring Barktoberfest
Annually, Capitol Riverfront
- Walk for the Animals is a one mile walk around the Capitol Riverfront area to raise money to benefit the Washington Humane Society and Washington Animal Rescue League
- Concurrent Pet-a-Palooza includes vendor booths, games, kids entertainment, and live music
- Pet entertainment, pet ontests, and pet adoptions
- 2016 event takes place Sunday, September 18
5. Bark or Treat Halloween Canine Cruise
October, Potomoc Riverboat Company, Alexandria, VA
- Bring your dog in a costume for photo opportunities
- Halloween treats for people and dogs
- Potomoc Riverboat Company offers dog-friendly cruise tours all year round
6. Wags ‘n’ Whiskers
August 27, The Village at Shirlington, 2700 S Quincy St. Arlington, VA
- Community-oriented event for animal-loving shoppers of all ages and their pets
- 65+ onsite exhibitors ranging from pet services and accessories to onsite adoptions
- Pet photo opportunities and activities
7. Pet Fiesta
Saturday, May 7th 2017, Reston Town Center, Reston, VA
- Annual outdoor festival bringing together local businesses, animal rescue groups and pet owners
- Includes Tails on Trails dog walk, a scenic walk to raise money to help homeless dogs
- Features Dog House of Style Fashion Show
- Participate in cool pet contests to win a doggie swag bag!
Washington DC hosts dog-friendly events for every season. (For more summer-specific DC dog events, check out this list.)
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